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Microsoft to Lay Off 6,000 Employees in Major Restructuring Move

Tosin Onisuuru
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Microsoft to Lay Off 6,000 Employees in Major Restructuring Move

Microsoft is set to lay off 6,000 workers, amounting to nearly 3 percent of its global workforce, The Guardian reported.

The company, which employed 228,000 full-time workers as of June 2024, did not provide specific details on the positions being cut.

However, the layoffs are expected to affect employees at all levels and across various locations, with an emphasis on reducing management ranks. Notices were sent to affected employees on Tuesday.

In a statement, Microsoft explained that the cuts were part of a broader organisational restructuring.

“We continue to implement organisational changes necessary to best position the company for success in a dynamic marketplace,” the company said.

The move followed a smaller round of performance-based layoffs earlier this year, but the 6,000 job losses represent the largest such reduction since Microsoft laid off 10,000 workers, or about 5 per cent of its workforce, in early 2023.

Despite the job cuts, Microsoft has remained financially strong, reporting robust sales and profits in its most recent quarter.

The company’s chief financial officer, Amy Hood, noted during an April earnings call, “We are focused on building high-performing teams and increasing our agility by reducing layers with fewer managers.”

Hood also mentioned that, as of March 2025, Microsoft’s headcount was 2 per cent higher compared to the previous year, although slightly lower than at the end of 2024.

The layoffs come as Microsoft continues to adjust to the changing tech landscape, even as it capitalises on the growing demand for artificial intelligence.

The company’s recent strong financial performance has provided some relief amid challenges facing the broader tech industry.

Lagos Government Plans Flexible Rent Options

Tosin Onisuuru
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Lagos Government Plans Flexible Rent Options

The Lagos State Government has announced its intention to roll out monthly and quarterly rent payment alternatives aimed at easing financial stress on residents, particularly those with low incomes.

This development was made public by the Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, on Tuesday during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing held in commemoration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second year in office.

According to Akinderu-Fatai, this proposed policy forms part of the ongoing effort to improve the accessibility and affordability of housing across the state.

He referenced a previously introduced rent-to-own programme, which enabled beneficiaries to start with a five per cent initial deposit and pay the remaining amount over a ten-year period.

“That initiative was well-received, and its success encouraged us to explore new ways to reduce the pressure of yearly rent payment,” he said.

He emphasized that many tenants struggle with annual rent demands, and the upcoming policy is designed to ease that burden.

“We believe that monthly or quarterly payment options will give people more breathing space and reduce the stress associated with sourcing lump sums,” he added.

Akinderu-Fatai further explained that the government is engaging with landlords, property developers, and other relevant parties to address potential issues concerning enforcement and payment processes before implementation.

“Of course, there are issues to resolve — things like landlord cooperation, payment tracking, and enforcement. But discussions are ongoing, and we are listening to all sides,” he said.

He also shared that a trial phase will be carried out in selected parts of Lagos.

“This is not just policy on paper. We are making real progress. We know what this means for many families, and we are determined to make it happen,” he stated.

Trump Pledges To Lift Syria Sanctions As He Seals $142bn Arms Deal On Saudi Visits

Tosin Onisuuru
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0
Trump Pledges To Lift Syria Sanctions As He Seals $142bn Arms Deal On Saudi Visits

During his first significant overseas tour, President Donald Trump described Saudi Arabia as the US’s “no stronger partner”, as he embarked on a fast-paced visit across Gulf nations aimed primarily at boosting investment.

While speaking in Riyadh, he also made a vow to remove sanctions on Syria, stating the country now deserved “a chance at greatness”.

On the first day of his tour, the United States and Saudi Arabia unveiled a $142 billion (£107 billion) arms agreement. The Saudi crown prince suggested that this and other agreements might eventually be valued at up to $1 trillion.

In 2017, Trump also chose Saudi Arabia as the first international destination of his presidency. His current journey will take him next to Qatar and the UAE.

Trump received a grand welcome upon his arrival in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, complete with a luxurious lavender carpet — a detail he matched with a purple tie.

The kingdom adopted lavender carpets in 2021 as a representation of its desert blossoms and hospitality.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman welcomed Trump at the airport with a ceremonial escort of Arabian horses flanking his motorcade.

At an investment summit, Trump praised the strength of the US-Saudi alliance, calling it “more powerful than ever before”.

“From the moment we started we’ve seen wealth that has poured – and is pouring – into America,” he remarked.

Trump’s objective is to attract more foreign investments into the US economy, a major theme of his administration since beginning his second term nearly four months ago.

He expressed his fondness for the crown prince by saying, “I like him too much,” and added, “That’s why we give so much.”

The extravagant reception marked a noticeable contrast from the more restrained greeting received by former US President Joe Biden during his 2022 trip to the oil-rich nation, when he met the crown prince with just a fist bump.

That earlier visit took place two years after Biden labeled Saudi Arabia a “pariah” state in the aftermath of the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018.

Trump’s mission to the Gulf includes finalizing financial deals. In his speech, he emphasized that prosperity and trade are the keys to ending the region’s long-standing conflicts and divisions.

To highlight his business-focused agenda, Trump was accompanied by top corporate figures like Elon Musk, Sam Altman of OpenAI, BlackRock’s Larry Fink, and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang.

These industry leaders are engaging with a Saudi government keen on shifting its economy beyond oil, with a focus on artificial intelligence.

During the trip, Huang disclosed that Nvidia would supply over 18,000 of its newest AI chips to the Saudi tech firm, Humain.

Trump also mentioned that it was his “dream” to see Saudi Arabia become part of the Abraham Accords — a diplomatic breakthrough from his first term that normalized ties between Israel and certain Gulf states.

However, Mohammed bin Salman has maintained that this won’t happen unless there’s a lasting peace in Gaza and a definitive move toward Palestinian statehood.

Trump touched only briefly on the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

He told attendees that the residents of Gaza were entitled to a “better future”, one he claimed had been obstructed by Hamas, which he said chose “to kidnap, torture and target” for “political ends” — referring to the October 7, 2023, assault on Israel.

In another unexpected announcement, Trump revealed plans to end US sanctions on Syria, suggesting the initiative came at the urging of Mohammed bin Salman.

“Oh, what I do for the crown prince,” he quipped.

For over ten years, American sanctions on Syria had been designed to isolate and punish the regime of former President Bashar al-Assad, who was removed from power in December.

Syria has since elected a transitional president, paving the way for the US to reengage diplomatically.

The decision to lift sanctions marks a major policy shift, with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Shibani calling it a “new start” for national rebuilding efforts.

Robert Ford, former US ambassador to Syria under President Obama, commended the decision to ease sanctions.

“I visited Syria three months ago and the country is simply devastated after the 13-year civil war. It needs to rebuild, it needs reconstruction, it needs foreign financing to do that,” he said.

“So removing the sanctions, that will enable international capital flows to go into Syria from Gulf states, from other Arab states and from different aid agencies is absolutely vital.”

Trump is scheduled to meet Syria’s interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, on Wednesday while still in Saudi Arabia.

Following his visit to Riyadh, Trump will travel to Qatar and the UAE — with the latter already pledging to invest $1.4 trillion in the United States over the next ten years.

Taiwo Awoniyi: The Brave Lion Fighting Through Pain for Club and Country

Tosin Onisuuru
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0
Taiwo Awoniyi: The Brave Lion Fighting Through Pain for Club and Country

In the thrilling world of football, every match tells a story — of victory, defeat, grit, and sometimes, heartbreak. For Taiwo Awoniyi, Nottingham Forest’s prolific Nigerian striker, that story took a shocking turn on a recent matchday that left fans, teammates, and the footballing world deeply concerned.

The Collision That Shook the City Ground

It was the 88th minute in a gripping 2-2 draw against Leicester City. Awoniyi, ever the predator in the box, lunged forward to meet a low cross from Anthony Elanga. In his trademark style — fearless and committed — he threw his body at the ball, only to collide violently with the goalpost. For a moment, the stadium fell into stunned silence.

He tried to play on. Perhaps it was adrenaline. Perhaps it was his warrior spirit. But soon, the pain became unbearable. He was substituted after brief medical attention. What initially seemed like a bruising blow would soon unravel into something far more serious.

An Emergency Surgery and a Medical Coma

Less than 24 hours later, Awoniyi was wheeled into emergency surgery. Doctors confirmed it was a severe abdominal injury — the kind that could be life-threatening if not handled immediately. Following the operation, he was placed in an induced coma, a decision made to help his body recover in a controlled and stable state.

This wasn’t just a football injury. It was a battle for life and health.

Marinakis, Nuno, and the Sideline Drama

Behind the scenes, emotions ran high. Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis, known for his passionate involvement, stormed onto the pitch after the final whistle. Rumors quickly spread of a heated exchange between him and head coach Nuno Espírito Santo over the decision to keep Awoniyi on the pitch post-injury.

The club, in a swift response, denied any altercation. But the message was clear: Awoniyi is not just another player — he’s the beating heart of this team, and everyone is watching out for him.

A History of Grit: Awoniyi’s Injury-Laced Season

This season has tested Awoniyi’s resilience more than ever:

  • November 2023: He underwent groin surgery after returning injured from international duty with Nigeria. That ruled him out of the Africa Cup of Nations — a devastating blow to both country and player.
  • February 2025: In an FA Cup clash against Exeter City, he suffered a broken nose and concussion after clashing with the goalkeeper. He returned weeks later wearing a protective face mask, undeterred.
  • May 2025: Now, another surgical procedure. Another recovery journey.

For many players, such a series of setbacks would break their spirit. Not Awoniyi.

Why Awoniyi Matters More Than Ever

In every game he starts, Nottingham Forest looks like a different team. His goals, work rate, and presence lift the entire squad. He was instrumental in their campaign for European football — a dream the club hadn’t touched in nearly three decades.

With him out of the lineup, Forest’s win percentage drops drastically. He’s not just a forward; he’s their game-changer.

What Happens Next?

As of May 14, Awoniyi is being gradually brought out of his coma. Doctors are hopeful, but cautious. There’s no concrete return date — and rightly so. The focus now is recovery, rest, and ensuring his long-term health.

Nottingham Forest fans wait anxiously. Nigerian fans pray. The footballing community watches with respect. Because whether you support Forest, Nigeria, or just love the game, there’s no denying Taiwo Awoniyi’s courage.

Court Sets June 27 for Senator Natasha’s Suspension Case

Tosin Onisuuru
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Court Sets June 27 for Senator Natasha’s Suspension Case

The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled June 27, 2025, to deliver its judgment in the case filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central. The suit challenges her suspension from the Senate following a dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Justice Binta Nyako fixed the date after all parties presented their final written arguments during Tuesday’s proceedings.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan filed the case to stop the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from probing her after a disagreement with Akpabio over seating arrangements in the chamber during plenary on February 20.

The issue escalated when Akpoti-Uduaghan later alleged on a TV programme that the Senate President sexually harassed her.

The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2025, lists the Clerk of the National Assembly, the Senate, the Senate President, and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Senator Nedamwen Imasuen, as the first to fourth defendants.

On March 4, the court granted a temporary order restraining the Senate from disciplining her. Despite this, on March 6, the Senate suspended her for six months, referencing a committee report accusing her of “gross misconduct” while the matter was still under judicial review.

During the April 4 hearing, Justice Nyako directed all parties to avoid media statements or social media commentary on the matter until the case was concluded.

At the most recent session, the legal team for the Senate and the Senate President alleged that Akpoti-Uduaghan breached the court’s order by posting a message titled “Satirical Apology” on Facebook, which they argued was contemptuous.

They claimed the post suggested that her suspension was a result of rejecting the alleged sexual advances by the Senate President and cited a publication to support their claim.

However, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lead counsel, Michael Numa (SAN), rejected the accusation, asserting that the post had no relevance to the current court case. “We maintain that the satirical post is unrelated to this suit,” he said. “Our client has already spent 68 days outside the National Assembly. We urge the court to expedite hearing and dismiss the contempt application.”

Charles Yoiki, counsel for the first defendant, argued that the court did not have the jurisdiction to hear the case and requested it be struck out. “We filed a motion challenging the court’s jurisdiction and asking it to strike out the suit, especially the originating process,” Yoiki said.

Chikodiri Ojukwu (SAN), representing the second defendant, also asked the court to strike out the matter, stating that his arguments were already on record.

Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN), appearing for the Senate President, echoed the jurisdictional challenge and said the suspension had already occurred, rendering the matter moot. He also requested the court to order the removal of the “Satirical Apology” post.

Valentine Offia, counsel for the fourth defendant, Senator Imasuen, also adopted his submitted legal documents.

Justice Nyako adjourned the matter to June 27 for judgment. She stated that the court would first address the contempt issue before considering the preliminary objections. The ruling on those objections, she added, would determine whether the main case would proceed.

NOUN Advocates Policy on Unified Certification in Africa

Precious Obazee
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NOUN Advocates Policy on Unified Certification in Africa

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has urged the National Universities Commission (NUC) to establish clear policies and regulatory frameworks to support the adoption of micro-credentials within Nigeria’s education system.

This call was made by the Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Professor Olufemi Peters, at the opening of a two-day international capacity-building workshop on micro-credentialing. The event, held in Abuja, was organized in collaboration with the Commonwealth of Learning (COL).

Professor Peters underscored the importance of integrating micro-credentials into mainstream education, describing them as a crucial tool for the future of learning and workforce development.

He noted that micro-credentials offer flexible, targeted alternatives to traditional academic degrees, and are increasingly relevant in a fast-evolving global job market.

He further emphasized the need for regulatory bodies, particularly the NUC, to take the lead in formulating national definitions, standards, and strategic goals to guide the effective implementation of micro-credentialing systems in Nigeria.

Also speaking at the event, Professor Christine Ofolue, Director of NOUN’s Regional Training and Research Institute for Open and Distance Learning (RETRIDOL), highlighted the need for a unified continental framework.

She pointed out that inconsistencies in the recognition of short courses and micro-credentials among institutions and employers in Nigeria hinder the system’s potential.

Dr. Roland Kouakou, Director of Education, Science, and Culture at the ECOWAS Commission, echoed the need for regional harmonization.

He emphasized the importance of micro-credentials and credit transfer systems in promoting educational mobility and cross-border credential recognition within West Africa.

The workshop is themed “Developing Micro-Credentials Transfer in a Digital Age”, and it aims to foster regional cooperation and build institutional capacity to integrate micro-credentials into formal education systems.

Ijora-Marine Bridge to Be Closed for 21 Days for Urgent Repairs — FG

Tosin Onisuuru
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Ijora-Marine Bridge to Be Closed for 21 Days for Urgent Repairs — FG

The Federal Government says it will temporarily close the Ijora-Marine Bridge in Lagos State for urgent repair work starting from May 18. The closure will last for 21 days.

The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, made the announcement in a statement released on Tuesday. She said the closure will begin at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 18.

She explained that some parts of the bridge will be completely closed, while other sections will face partial closures during the period.

Kesha said the repairs will involve lifting the bridge deck, replacing worn-out bearings, and doing other critical maintenance.

According to her, the goal is to make the bridge safer and more comfortable for both motorists and pedestrians.

Kesha said, “We understand the inconvenience this may cause, but this is a necessary step to keep the bridge in good condition and ensure the safety of all road users.”

She added that traffic will be diverted and traffic officers will be present to guide drivers and maintain a steady flow.

She also asked residents, commuters, and business owners in the area to plan ahead and cooperate during the repair period.

“Safety signs and traffic management tools will be put in place to minimise disruption.
“We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience and thank members of the public for their patience,” she added.

UBEC Introduces New Template to Improve Access to UBE Funds

Precious Obazee
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0
UBEC Introduces New Template to Improve Access to UBE Funds

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has announced plans to roll out a revised template aimed at improving the disbursement and accessibility of federal counterpart funding under the Universal Basic Education (UBE) programme.

UBEC’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Aisha Garba, made the announcement during a workshop in Abuja attended by State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) Chairmen and Desk Officers from all 36 states and the FCT.

The new template is being refined to streamline the process and eliminate barriers that have previously hindered states from accessing intervention funds—often resulting in large sums remaining unused.

Garba explained that the redesign aligns with the federal government’s four key strategic pillars for basic education: expanding access in rural and underserved areas, improving teaching and learning quality, enhancing accountability in education spending, and strengthening monitoring and institutional systems.

She noted that the Hope Education Project, introduced by the current administration, emphasizes performance-based rewards for states that use education funds effectively in line with these priorities.

Consequently, the updated template will guide SUBEBs in crafting work plans that align with these strategic goals and the implementation of the Hope Project.

In his remarks, UBEC’s Deputy Executive Secretary for General Services, Tunde Ajibulu, emphasized that this realignment reflects the Commission’s commitment to ensuring better outcomes in basic education delivery nationwide.

US Slashes Tariffs on Small Packages from China, Like Shein and Temu

Tosin Onisuuru
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0
US Slashes Tariffs on Small Packages from China, Like Shein and Temu

President Donald Trump has reduced the tariffs on small parcels sent from mainland China and Hong Kong to the United States. This move comes just hours after both countries agreed to cut levies on each other’s goods for 90 days.

According to a statement from the White House, the new tariffs on small packages worth up to $800 have been cut from 120% to 54%. The flat fee per parcel will stay at $100, and a $200 charge that was set to take effect from June 1 has been cancelled.

Chinese online retailers like Shein and Temu have previously taken advantage of the “de minimis” exemption to send low-value items directly to U.S. consumers without paying duties or import taxes.

The duty-free rule was closed earlier this month by the Trump administration. Some shoppers said they rushed their purchases before the deadline.

The changes come after the U.S. and China issued a joint statement saying they would temporarily reduce tariffs and begin a new round of trade talks.

Stock markets jumped on Monday after Trump said talks over the weekend led to a “total reset” in trade relations between the two countries. The move helped ease fears of a full-blown trade war.

Under the agreement, U.S. tariffs will drop from 145% to 30%, while China will lower its retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods from 125% to 10%.

Trump told reporters that since some of the levies have only been suspended, they could return in three months if no progress is made. But he also said he didn’t expect them to return to the previous 145% level.

“We’re not looking to hurt China,” Trump said after the agreement was announced, adding that China was “being hurt very badly”.

Trump also said he expects to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping “maybe at the end of the week.”

Liberal Party Names First Female Leader After Historic Australia Election Loss

Tosin Onisuuru
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0
Liberal Party Names First Female Leader After Historic Australia Election Loss

For the first time in its history, Australia’s Liberal Party has selected a woman to lead the party, with Sussan Ley succeeding Peter Dutton, who guided them through a significant electoral defeat.

Ley, associated with the party’s moderate wing, narrowly won the leadership contest against Angus Taylor, who campaigned on reviving conservative principles, securing victory by just four votes.

During the 3 May election, the Liberal-National coalition — which forms the country’s main opposition — endured what many consider to be its most severe loss ever.

Analysts and lawmakers have attributed the poor performance to divisive leadership, a disorganized campaign, and “Trumpian” policies, which particularly distanced women and younger voters.

Ley’s rise to leadership coincided with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s formal swearing-in at Government House on Tuesday, following a sweeping win by the Labor Party.

As reported by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Labor has claimed at least 93 seats — gaining an additional 16 — while the Coalition’s representation has dropped to 42 from 58. Several races remain undecided.

Representing the vast regional electorate of Farrer in New South Wales since 2001, Ley has held senior roles across multiple ministries, positioning her among the most seasoned figures in the Liberal Party. She also previously served as deputy under Dutton.

Queensland MP Ted O’Brien, who had overseen the Coalition’s contentious nuclear energy plan, has been chosen to serve as Ley’s deputy.

Ley expressed her commitment to reconnecting the party with the electorate — especially the demographics that felt overlooked.

“We have to have a Liberal Party that respects modern Australia, that reflects modern Australia, and that represents modern Australia. And we have to meet the people where they are,” she said.

Speaking to the press, she confirmed that the party’s election performance would be formally examined — along with its broader platform, including policies on nuclear energy and net-zero emissions.

“I want to do things differently, and we have to have a fresh approach,” she said.

“I committed to my colleagues that there would be no captain’s calls from anywhere by me… that we would work through every single policy issue and canvas the different views and take the time to get it right.”

Following the leadership outcome, Taylor congratulated Ley and emphasized the need for party cohesion.

“Sussan has led a remarkable life and becoming the first woman to lead the Liberal Party is a milestone for Sussan and our party,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Nationals — the Coalition’s junior partner — reaffirmed David Littleproud as their leader on Monday, despite a challenge from a more hardline member.

The new Labor cabinet was also officially instated on Tuesday.

Among the notable reshuffles, former deputy Tanya Plibersek has moved from the environment portfolio to oversee social services, while Michelle Rowland, previously in charge of communications, has been appointed attorney general.

Former Attorney General Mark Dreyfus and Ed Husic — who made history as the first Muslim minister in an Australian government — have both been removed from the frontbench.

“I have got people who are, I think, in the best positions and that’s across the board,” Albanese said when announcing the positions on Monday.

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